Utilization of Solid Wastes in Shotcrete Production

Confirmation seminar presented by Xuanyu Zhu.

Shotcrete (aka sprayed concrete) has received increasing demand in recent years at global scales due to its widespread use in mines and underground spaces as a support system. While shotcrete is known for its strength, durability, and flexibility; it is typically over-sanded to prevent unwanted rebounds. But, sand is becoming the second-most consumed resource on earth hence its price has increased significantly leading to negatively impacting the construction and shotcrete industries. Recycling local solid waste to replace natural sand in shotcrete mixes is therefore of urgent need and widespread attention. This research attempts to replace quarried sand with synthetic aggregates made of local wastes to produce green shotcrete mixes without compromising the quality and yet fulfilling the standard recommendations.